Get guidance on creating a balanced AdviceFirst Build for mid-range gaming.
Get guidance on creating a balanced AdviceFirst Build for mid-range gaming.
I updated the parts list after reviewing the options in the discussion thread.
Edit 2
: All items except the motherboard and GPU are now acquired.
Edit 3
: I secured a solid deal on the RX 6950 XT, leaving only the motherboard to consider.
After careful consideration over the past year or so, I decided I’d like to enjoy the games I usually miss due to my limited hardware setup (just a Nintendo Switch and a small laptop). I’ve been consulting ChatGPT repeatedly, compiling an initial list from our chats, and then refining it through feedback rounds, reading numerous articles, and watching several videos. The feedback group was small, so I sought additional perspectives. I’m not committed to any of the items on my list, so feel free to advise if major changes are needed.
Parts List
On PCPartPicker
(the word spaghetti below may be unclear)
CPU
: Ryzen 5 7600X 4.7 GHz 6-Core Processor
(purchased for $200)
CPU Cooler
: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE 66.17 CFM CPU Cooler
(purchased for $21 (using a gift card))
Mobo
: Gigabyte B650 GAMING X AX ATX AM5 Motherboard
RAM
: OLOy Blade 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL32 Memory
(purchased for $88)
SSD
: Intel 670p 2 TB M.2-2280 PCIe 3.0 X4 NVME Solid State Drive
(purchased for $65)
GPU
: XFX]https://a.co/d/7geUA0V']XFX
Speedster MERC 319 Radeon RX 6950 XT 16 GB Video Card [/URL](purchased for $560)
Case
: RAIJINTEK PONOS MS ATX Mid Tower Case
(purchased for $60)
PSU
: Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 TT Premium 750 W 80+ Gold Certified Fully Modular ATX Power Supply
(purchased for $90 after rebate)
Case Fans
: ARCTIC P12 PST 56.3 CFM 120 mm Fans 5-Pack
(purchased for $31)
Total: $1305.71 (excluding taxes)
Approximate Purchase Date: soon this week, possibly within the next few weeks while keeping an eye on price shifts
Budget Range: ideally under $1200–$1300, though a top spend of around $1500 is possible
System Priorities from Most to Least Important: gaming, watching movies, internet browsing
Are you purchasing a monitor?
No
Parts to Upgrade: new build
Do you need an operating system?
Yes
Preferred Websites for Parts: none (just looking for good value)
Location: Raleigh, NC
Parts Preferences: none (first-time buyer)
Overclocking: maybe, but unlikely initially
SLI or Crossfire: maybe, but probably not at first
Monitor Resolution: 2560 x 1440
Additional Notes:
I’m indifferent about RGB lighting; actually, I’d rather avoid it if possible, though having some on the build wouldn’t be a problem.
Since I’ve mainly played on my Switch for several years, newer graphics upgrades might not stand out much. So, if I had to choose between a high-end build and a solid one, I’d likely settle for the latter.
I’m a casual gamer, usually installing only a few games at once (so the 1 TB SSD might be excessive), and the 2 TB HDD could be unnecessary.
If it really matters, I’m not particularly into competitive titles, so top performance isn’t my main goal. I lean toward single-player and expansive worlds.
On the Switch, I’d enjoy games like Breath of the Wild, Tears of the Kingdom, Xenoblade Chronicles, etc.
On PC, I aim for Baldur’s Gate 3, Eldin Ring, The Witcher 3, etc.
And Most Importantly: Why am I upgrading?
I’ve been a modest Switch gamer for years, but now with a higher income, I’m looking to upgrade to a more powerful device.
PS: Thank you for taking the time to read this (and possibly offer feedback). Your help and insights have been invaluable in helping me progress with PC building, and I truly appreciate it.
Other options for cooling:
Thermalright Assassin X 120 V2
Alternate Cooler: Thermalright Peerless Assassin 120 SE
(if your CPU doesn’t require this cooling level, you can maintain lower fan speeds)
Video card: MSI Gaming Radeon RX 6750 XT 12GB
HDD replacement: Intel 670p Series M.2 2280 2TB
DRAM upgrade: OLOy Blade 32 GB (2 x 16 GB) DDR5-6000 CL32 Memory
you have 400 left to spend. the gigabyte gaming ax mobo for 190 USD is a solid purchase. that means roughly 210 USD remains for the GPU, which isn't enough for 2k gaming. the 6750XT isn't perfect but it's a great budget option, so consider saving up for it.
i was checking the pcpp list and noticed the total was off.
but it makes sense to go with a 4070 from nvidia or a 6800xt from amd if possible.
if you're willing to stretch, the 6950xt is a solid choice at around 640 usd right now.
https://pcpartpicker.com/product/BM...gb...-695xatbd9